Tip-off between Florida Gulf Coast University and Florida State in the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament is upon us.

We spoke with FGCU President Wilson Bradhsaw who said he couldn't be happier to share the moment with the team in his final year.

Bradshaw is also the number one FGCU fan – a title you don't throw around lightly in Eagles territory.

"It's been something to be a part of," he said.

For the past 10 years, Dr. Bradshaw was the face of the university. As president, he's seen the school transform right before his eyes. Now in his last year, what better sendoff than making the NCAA tournament?

"I'm so pleased that I've had an opportunity to work with some great people in the university and get the support of the community."

The emergence of championship-caliber basketball programs was no surprise to Dr. Bradshaw. What he can't argue is how few expected Dunk City to take on a mind of its own.

"It's been very unique. What's happened at Florida Gulf Coast University in the past 10 years and before, wasn't happening at any other university in the country."

Since Dunk City's historic run in 2013, enrollment increased by 800 students, as well as student GPA, and fundraising doubled to $33 million.

Mainly thanks to some, like Bob Ryan, who've adopted the team as their own.

"The team has grown by leaps and bounds, and it's been so much fun. We have a bunch of kids and it's been fun," he said.

The hype is building and expectations are higher than ever before.

Brackets across the country believe the Eagles could pull off the big win, but don't call it an upset.

"You're gonna see in FGCU a team that has practiced hard, worked hard. They're not out of their element on the court with FSU tonight," Bradshaw said.

People started to crowd the hotel lobbies as we waited to send the team off on a good note to the Amway Center.

The game starts at 9:20 p.m., but fans have been invited to a pre-game party at Ferg's Depot.